Emerging Tech
Feds announce two new drone test sites
The sites — the first new ones in over a decade — will be in the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and Indiana Economic Development Corporation.
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DHS launches office for drone and counter-drone technologies
The agency said the new office is already in the process of finalizing a $115 million investment in counter-drone tech that will be used to help secure the FIFA World Cup and activities celebrating the United States’ 250th anniversary.
This year’s top trends in aerial imagery, AI and GIS
COMMENTARY | These technologies will propel state and local governments forward in 2026, and will transform how they understand realities, anticipate risks and protect their communities.
California tax revenue getting a boost from AI boom — but for how long?
As talk of a possible AI bubble grows, so does uncertainty around an important source of California tax money.
An AI tool built by local government, for local government
Washoe County, Nevada, is helping develop an AI tool aimed at meeting the unique needs and demands of its residents and employees.
Could self-driving cars be on a collision course with Zohran Mamdani?
The incoming mayor has not weighed in on the autonomous vehicles that have taken other cities by storm. But he’s certain to face pressure to do so, from both the industry and taxi workers.
The drone threat is here. Is your community ready?
COMMENTARY | The technology exists to mitigate threats, and governments must act now to make policy and planning decisions, get people trained and establish a command structure.
States urge more federal coordination amid growth of new aviation options
Advanced air mobility promises air taxis, delivery planes and others in the nation’s skies. Leaders said while the FAA must lead on airspace management, it must listen to those on the ground.
Texas becomes the first state to buy bitcoin as more states eye cryptocurrencies
A new law allows Texas to invest millions in the emerging financial market.
New Mexico unveils quantum telecom network
State officials have been positioning New Mexico as a leader in quantum sciences and technologies through private sector help and federal partnerships.
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Lawmakers look to make old laws on recording relevant in a world of Ring cameras, cellphones
Several measures to amend Maryland’s two-party wiretap law are likely to be reintroduced for the 2026 legislative session.
Virginia lawmakers glad National Science Foundation headquarters to remain in state
The General Services Administration announcement about NSF's new building did not address when the Housing and Urban Development Department would move into the science agency's current headquarters.
How government leaders can balance the pros and cons of data center development
Policy and partnerships with tech companies can give state and local leaders a lever to ensure data centers are developed responsibly and sustainable, experts said during a recent webinar.
State leaders push laws to bring down drones
While the federal government has ultimate authority over airspace, in the absence of firm action, more states are stepping up to protect residents from illegal drone activity.
Colorado town strives to become an ‘agentic smart city’
Vail has implemented a smart city platform that municipal leaders hope will improve government operations and boost customer experience.
Raleigh turns to a digital twin to improve city safety and planning
The North Carolina city is leveraging digital twin technology to help inform traffic management and city planning decisions.
Phoenix plans digital twin to solve regional challenges
The Arizona region’s smart city consortium wants to bring together several towns and cities to explore how to potentially work on issues around traffic, development, climate and others.
Kentucky bans drones from being used to take fish or wildlife
Kentucky is banning the use of aircraft or unmanned aircraft, like drones, in hunting and fishing, under a new state regulation.
One county uses wearables to protect its growing aging population
Like many U.S. communities, Los Angeles County’s older adult population is booming. Wearable tech could help address those people’s increasing health needs and safety concerns.
New Mexico State University, Japanese tech firm create new ‘innovation hub’ to test AI
The university is partnering with a Japanese tech company to the create a testing ground for the company’s latest AI and other advanced technologies.
